Standing atop Crest Road in Chattanooga, Tenn., Viet Nam military veterans Robert Bunch, Ron Tatum and Ron Harvey wave to motorists along I-24 Friday in celebration of Veterans Day.Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Bill Raines noted Friday that an amazing thing happens each day in the United States — people wake up free.
Speaking to an audience of more than 300 at Chattanooga National Cemetery, Raines said the belief in and protection of freedom connected the sacrifices of veterans both past and present, with all Americans.
“You’re a rock’s throw away from people who gave it all to have freedom and to keep our country united,” Raines said.
Those gathered at the cemetery and at events throughout the region honored veterans, living and dead, with ceremonies, luncheons, parades and concerts this week connected to Friday’s Veterans Day observance.
Larry Hester, service officer for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3679 in Chickamauga, Ga., said Veterans Day and related events are a good way to remind veterans of the benefits they’ve earned.